University of Central Florida (UCF) HUN3011 Human Nutrition Practice Exam 3

Excessive weight is not considered a direct sign of malnutrition in older adults. Malnutrition typically refers to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person's intake of energy and nutrients, resulting in adverse effects on health. While being underweight or having a deficiency in nutrients can be indicators of malnutrition, excessive weight is more associated with overnutrition, which can lead to obesity rather than malnutrition itself.

In contrast, the other options—alcoholism, depression/dementia, and chewing problems—are more directly linked with malnutrition. Alcoholism can lead to nutrient deficiencies due to poor dietary choices and the body's increased nutrient needs. Depression and dementia can affect appetite, leading to inadequate nutrient intake. Chewing problems can hinder an individual's ability to consume food properly, further contributing to the risk of malnutrition. These factors collectively emphasize the complexity of nutrition in older adults and how their health can be influenced by various non-nutritional factors.